THE FLORIDA SWING

Having won the Edwin Watts Tour spring Major at Southern Dunes last year. I had planned my spring season around a defence of this title to be held at Grande Pines just off the famous International Drive in Orlando. The whole trip was more difficult than I had imagined as this venture I had to go solo, matron deciding after our 3 month road trip she had done enuff flying.

Grande Pines, those pesky bunkers cost me

Grande Pines was in pristine condition, the best of the 4 courses I played on this trip. Weather was scorching and despite an horrendous start to my last round when only trailing by two from class leade James Rearden, I tripled 1, 2 and 3 and at the turn was 8 adrift and tied 6th, when I put together a fantastic last nine which took me on to the brink of a play off with a putt on the last to force a tie with James. Still a spirited defence, a worthy winner and I shall return in August for a tilt at the Summer Major at Mission Inn, followed by my defence of the Florida Open at PGA West Palm Beach, former host of a Ryder Cup. Hopefully a reasonable place here will ensure with my two seconds so far, enough points to qualify for the Nationals at Hilton Head Again for a second tilt at The Biggest Crown on the E Tour Amateur circuit.

Harmony, superbly designed and maintained, must play if in Orlando

I also played on trip two of the renowned courses in Orlando that had so far over the years eluded me. Royal St.Cloud and Harmony Golf Preserve. both south East of Orlando along the famous US 192, so very handy for most tourists. I am pleased to report both are very fine tracks and should be on any visitors itinerary if visiting he land of Mickey.

Royal St Cloud 27 linksy style holes of great design and quality

Thoughts now turn to home, sadly because of my ewtour commitments it appears I may not be able to play in this Years Peoples Open, the final being in August when I am due back in Florida. I deeply regret this the opportunity to play at St.Andrews being one I had wanted to have a go at. Fortunately I will be able to return to the British Par 3 the week before I fly out to Florida. Strongly confident of going even better than my fifth place in the Pro Am last year.

My next outing sees me in the midlands at Henley in Arden playing as a guest celebrity in THE SHOW AM Charity Classic in a Social Golfer 4 man Team. Wish us Luck!!!!!!!!!!!